Psychiatrists in 07836

Photo of Vid Sarkodie - Vida Sarkodie INC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vida Sarkodie INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Flanders, NJ 07836
Text/Call (973) 668-5502. I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and serve New Jersey & New York with my mind, body, and spirit-centered philosophy of mental health care. Focusing on psychiatric drugs, I am dedicated to improving my patients 'lives in some tangible way.
Text/Call (973) 668-5502. I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and serve New Jersey & New York with my mind, body, and spirit-centered philosophy of mental health care. Focusing on psychiatric drugs, I am dedicated to improving my patients 'lives in some tangible way.
(862) 858-6118 View (862) 858-6118
Photo of Anastasia Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anastasia Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a licensed psychiatrist, I provide a supportive space for those facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or unhealthy patterns. Using CBT, DBT, and mindfulness, I offer both counseling and medication management to promote healing. My expertise includes PTSD, child/adolescent counseling, and psychiatric medication management for comprehensive mental health care.
As a licensed psychiatrist, I provide a supportive space for those facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or unhealthy patterns. Using CBT, DBT, and mindfulness, I offer both counseling and medication management to promote healing. My expertise includes PTSD, child/adolescent counseling, and psychiatric medication management for comprehensive mental health care.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of William D Becker, Psychiatrist, MD
William D Becker
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
(973) 292-0758 View (973) 292-0758
Photo of Jamilla Campo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jamilla Campo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
East Orange, NJ 07018
I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed by responsibilities such as school, family dynamics, caregiving, or health changes. I help them make sense of what they’re experiencing, identify patterns, and develop practical strategies so they can move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and emotional balance.
I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed by responsibilities such as school, family dynamics, caregiving, or health changes. I help them make sense of what they’re experiencing, identify patterns, and develop practical strategies so they can move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and emotional balance.
(973) 346-9788 View (973) 346-9788
Photo of Denise Daley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denise Daley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
A nurse practitioner (NP) with 30 years of nursing experience, including work across multiple areas of healthcare, brings a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to managing complex adolescent behavioral and substance use issues like the one described in this case.
A nurse practitioner (NP) with 30 years of nursing experience, including work across multiple areas of healthcare, brings a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to managing complex adolescent behavioral and substance use issues like the one described in this case.
(908) 975-1300 View (908) 975-1300
Photo of Zona Alabi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Zona Alabi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07105
Eagle Health Services provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. We offer psychiatry and counseling services both in-person and via Telehealth. We offer offices both in Northern and Central New Jersey. Nurse Practitioner Zona Alabi, a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse, offers assessment, therapy, and medication management. Every client is unique in their mental health needs and I strive to provide compassionate holistic care and treatment plan geared at improving the overall mental health and well being of all clients across the lifespan.
Eagle Health Services provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. We offer psychiatry and counseling services both in-person and via Telehealth. We offer offices both in Northern and Central New Jersey. Nurse Practitioner Zona Alabi, a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse, offers assessment, therapy, and medication management. Every client is unique in their mental health needs and I strive to provide compassionate holistic care and treatment plan geared at improving the overall mental health and well being of all clients across the lifespan.
(973) 381-2503 View (973) 381-2503
Photo of Brie Benaquista - Brie Benaquista at Montclair Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Brie Benaquista at Montclair Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
When considering medication, teens and adults need a clinician that makes them feel comfortable and heard. So many wrestle with a myriad of social and emotional dynamics in the context of their biology. They need a clinician who understands this complexity with great compassion and empathy and who will help them consider the possibility of taking medication thoughtfully and holistically.
When considering medication, teens and adults need a clinician that makes them feel comfortable and heard. So many wrestle with a myriad of social and emotional dynamics in the context of their biology. They need a clinician who understands this complexity with great compassion and empathy and who will help them consider the possibility of taking medication thoughtfully and holistically.
(862) 329-7964 View (862) 329-7964
Photo of Dr. Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos - Nu Imagery Healthcare, LLC., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES
Nu Imagery Healthcare, LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES
Haskell, NJ 07420
We believe that medical and psychological problems are intertwined and can be addressed in one session. We provide integrated and balanced healthcare to address primary care issues, especially weight loss & obesity, sleep, and diabetes while addressing psychiatric mental health issues. We help you cope with school/ work stress. We provide psychiatric and prescription treatment of obesity & binge eating with weight loss plans to keep you on track. We deliver psychotherapeutic techniques to help you reduce stress and cope with challenges. Our treatment modality may improve your quality of life and reduce stress from work and school.
We believe that medical and psychological problems are intertwined and can be addressed in one session. We provide integrated and balanced healthcare to address primary care issues, especially weight loss & obesity, sleep, and diabetes while addressing psychiatric mental health issues. We help you cope with school/ work stress. We provide psychiatric and prescription treatment of obesity & binge eating with weight loss plans to keep you on track. We deliver psychotherapeutic techniques to help you reduce stress and cope with challenges. Our treatment modality may improve your quality of life and reduce stress from work and school.
(201) 474-2305 View (201) 474-2305
Photo of Marly Jiby - Cornerstone Healing Clinic LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Cornerstone Healing Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Online Only
Thank you for looking at my profile. I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. I have been working with patients with mental health issues for more than a decade. I believe each person has an internal capability and tendency to be resilient. Are you not that happy self that you used to be? Are you sad, tired, emotional, irritable or angry without a proportional reason? Can you not pay attention or accomplish a task? Are you not enthusiastic anymore? Are you stressed or overwhelmed?
Thank you for looking at my profile. I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. I have been working with patients with mental health issues for more than a decade. I believe each person has an internal capability and tendency to be resilient. Are you not that happy self that you used to be? Are you sad, tired, emotional, irritable or angry without a proportional reason? Can you not pay attention or accomplish a task? Are you not enthusiastic anymore? Are you stressed or overwhelmed?
(732) 491-8324 View (732) 491-8324
Photo of Joseph A Donnellan - Joseph A. Donnellan, M.D., Psychiatrist, MD
Joseph A. Donnellan, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Hi! I have 27 years experience as a board-certified psychiatrist in central New Jersey. My specialties are eating disorders, depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I have been the medical director of the Eating Disorders Program at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset (formerly Somerset Medical Center) for 22 years and I am the Chief of Psychiatry there, a position I have held since 1999. I have a private-practice in Hillsborough, which I started in 1993. I believe that one size does NOT fit all and every patient needs a unique treatment plan that should be developed together between professional and patient.
Hi! I have 27 years experience as a board-certified psychiatrist in central New Jersey. My specialties are eating disorders, depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I have been the medical director of the Eating Disorders Program at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset (formerly Somerset Medical Center) for 22 years and I am the Chief of Psychiatry there, a position I have held since 1999. I have a private-practice in Hillsborough, which I started in 1993. I believe that one size does NOT fit all and every patient needs a unique treatment plan that should be developed together between professional and patient.
(908) 332-5624 View (908) 332-5624
Photo of Sylvana Garcia Morales - Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-BC
Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-BC
2 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Sylvana Garcia, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey. She has over 10 years of experience in psychiatry as both a psychiatric registered nurse and nurse practitioner. She believes each individual has their own story, challenges and perspectives that influence their mental health. Her goal is to improve her patients quality of life by providing active listening and compassionate care through a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. For more information, please visit us at www.PsychiatricArtsofNJ.com and learn more about the practice.
Sylvana Garcia, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey. She has over 10 years of experience in psychiatry as both a psychiatric registered nurse and nurse practitioner. She believes each individual has their own story, challenges and perspectives that influence their mental health. Her goal is to improve her patients quality of life by providing active listening and compassionate care through a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. For more information, please visit us at www.PsychiatricArtsofNJ.com and learn more about the practice.
(973) 221-9142 View (973) 221-9142
Photo of Ada Contreras, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Ada Contreras
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Newark, NJ 07102
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
(201) 903-9870 View (201) 903-9870
Photo of Ibrahim Sahid Kargbo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, APN
Ibrahim Sahid Kargbo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, APN
1 Endorsed
Branchburg, NJ 08876
I am Ibrahim Kargbo, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience providing comprehensive behavioral health care. I am committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based treatment to individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Practice Availability: – New Jersey: Online telehealth services on Fridays and Saturdays – Delaware: In-person visits on Fridays and online services on Saturdays I strive to provide accessible, respectful, and patient-centered care that supports long-term wellness and recovery.
I am Ibrahim Kargbo, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience providing comprehensive behavioral health care. I am committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based treatment to individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Practice Availability: – New Jersey: Online telehealth services on Fridays and Saturdays – Delaware: In-person visits on Fridays and online services on Saturdays I strive to provide accessible, respectful, and patient-centered care that supports long-term wellness and recovery.
(732) 936-7657 View (732) 936-7657
Photo of Ngozi Beatrice Amadiegwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ngozi Beatrice Amadiegwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
Ngozi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, and she sees children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. She offers diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions. She has over 23 years of Psychiatric experience in her career, and have earned the ability to diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental and psychological issues in all life span. At Uncana Health, we are dedicated in working and managing our client mental health problem individually. Feel free to contact us via email or phone uncana health services/7329020219
Ngozi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, and she sees children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. She offers diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions. She has over 23 years of Psychiatric experience in her career, and have earned the ability to diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental and psychological issues in all life span. At Uncana Health, we are dedicated in working and managing our client mental health problem individually. Feel free to contact us via email or phone uncana health services/7329020219
(908) 866-5178 View (908) 866-5178
Photo of Eric Ross Behar, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Eric Ross Behar
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My philosophy is based on the belief that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to their treatment. I work collaboratively with my patients to identify their specific needs and goals, and to develop a treatment plan that best suits them. The cost of an initial psychiatric appointment may seem high, it is reflective of the specialized training and expertise that my training brings to you. Additionally, the initial appointment is a crucial step in establishing a therapeutic relationship and developing a personalized treatment plan, which can ultimately lead to improved mental health and well-being.
My philosophy is based on the belief that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to their treatment. I work collaboratively with my patients to identify their specific needs and goals, and to develop a treatment plan that best suits them. The cost of an initial psychiatric appointment may seem high, it is reflective of the specialized training and expertise that my training brings to you. Additionally, the initial appointment is a crucial step in establishing a therapeutic relationship and developing a personalized treatment plan, which can ultimately lead to improved mental health and well-being.
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Photo of Kathryn Martinez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kathryn Martinez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Middlesex, NJ 08846
I believe that treatment is specific to each individual and I have the ability to incorporate an interdisciplinary evidence-based treatment approach through therapy, medication management, and holistic care in order to treat specific individualized symptoms.
I believe that treatment is specific to each individual and I have the ability to incorporate an interdisciplinary evidence-based treatment approach through therapy, medication management, and holistic care in order to treat specific individualized symptoms.
(908) 840-8486 View (908) 840-8486
Photo of Bola Ikwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP-, BC
Bola Ikwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
Bola is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has about 17 years of clinical experience in mental health and neuroscience. She is a good listener, and she is passionate about caring for clients with mental health disorders. She cares for adults and adolescents with various diagnoses: Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety disorder, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Schizophrenia, OCD, etc.
Bola is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has about 17 years of clinical experience in mental health and neuroscience. She is a good listener, and she is passionate about caring for clients with mental health disorders. She cares for adults and adolescents with various diagnoses: Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety disorder, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Schizophrenia, OCD, etc.
(908) 388-9575 View (908) 388-9575
Photo of Dr. Iroka Ifegwu - Divine Restorators Psychiatric Services LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Divine Restorators Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Union, NJ 07083
As a home-based PMHNP, I work with individuals who are often navigating complex emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges-ranging from anxiety and depression to trauma-related disorders. My ideal client is someone who values accessible, personalized care. With over 20 years of experience in psychiatric intake, i have been able to provide help without the barriers of traditional in-office visits through tele psychiatric services. I can provide a safe, supportive space where you will heal, grow, and move toward a more fulfilling life.
As a home-based PMHNP, I work with individuals who are often navigating complex emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges-ranging from anxiety and depression to trauma-related disorders. My ideal client is someone who values accessible, personalized care. With over 20 years of experience in psychiatric intake, i have been able to provide help without the barriers of traditional in-office visits through tele psychiatric services. I can provide a safe, supportive space where you will heal, grow, and move toward a more fulfilling life.
(908) 265-1691 View (908) 265-1691
Photo of Sajid Baig, Psychiatrist, MD
Sajid Baig
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy for the general adult population. After finishing medical school, I completed my Psychiatric residency in 2016 at Howard University in Washington, DC where I served as chief resident in my senior year. Since then, I have worked in a variety of different settings including inpatient, outpatient, community center and forensics.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy for the general adult population. After finishing medical school, I completed my Psychiatric residency in 2016 at Howard University in Washington, DC where I served as chief resident in my senior year. Since then, I have worked in a variety of different settings including inpatient, outpatient, community center and forensics.
(201) 817-6230 View (201) 817-6230
Photo of Dr. Tiffanie Bailey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Dr. Tiffanie Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Newark, NJ 07102
Tiffanie is a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with over eight years of experience in nursing, specializing in mental health care. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Neumann University, where she developed a strong foundation in patient-centered care. Continuing her education, she earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Gardner-Webb University, further enhancing her expertise in psychiatric nursing.With a focus on holistic care, she employs evidence-based practices to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
Tiffanie is a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with over eight years of experience in nursing, specializing in mental health care. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Neumann University, where she developed a strong foundation in patient-centered care. Continuing her education, she earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Gardner-Webb University, further enhancing her expertise in psychiatric nursing.With a focus on holistic care, she employs evidence-based practices to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
(862) 727-7262 View (862) 727-7262

See more therapy options for 07836

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07836

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07836 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Alcohol Use

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07836 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07836?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.